If you’ve never had your home appraised before, the process can feel a little mysterious. What does the appraiser actually do when they come out? How long does it take? What happens after they leave? This post answers all of those questions so you know exactly what to expect.
Step 1: Scheduling the Appointment
Once you submit a request and confirm your fee, we’ll schedule an inspection visit at a time that works for you. Most visits take 30 to 60 minutes depending on the size and complexity of your home. You don’t need to do anything special to prepare — just make sure all areas of the home are accessible, including the attic and crawl space if applicable.
Step 2: The On-Site Inspection
When the appraiser arrives, they’ll work through the property systematically. Here’s what typically happens during the visit:
Exterior Inspection
The appraiser will walk the perimeter of the home, noting the condition of the roof, foundation, siding, windows, driveway, and any outbuildings or structures on the property. They’ll also take exterior photos and measure the gross living area of the home.
Interior Inspection
Inside, the appraiser will move through each room, noting the layout, finish quality, condition, and any updates or renovations. Kitchens and bathrooms receive particular attention since they have a significant impact on value. The appraiser will also note flooring, ceiling heights, natural light, and any visible deficiencies that could affect the value or marketability of the home.
Measurements
The appraiser measures the exterior dimensions of the home to calculate gross living area (GLA). This is the finished, heated living space — garages, unfinished basements, and covered porches typically don’t count toward GLA.
Photos
Photos are taken throughout the inspection — exterior, interior rooms, kitchen, bathrooms, and any notable features or deficiencies. These photos become part of the appraisal report.
Step 3: Market Research and Report Writing
After leaving your property, the real analytical work begins. The appraiser researches recent comparable sales in your area — homes similar to yours that have sold within the past six to twelve months. They analyze how your home compares to those sales based on size, condition, location, features, and any differences that need to be accounted for.
This research, combined with the inspection findings, forms the basis of the Sales Comparison Approach — the primary method used in residential appraisals.
Step 4: Receiving Your Report
At Mac-Valuations, most standard appraisal reports are delivered within 48 hours of the inspection visit. The report will include:
- A detailed description of your property
- Exterior and interior photos
- A map showing the location of your home and the comparable sales used
- An analysis of the comparable sales and how your home compares
- The appraiser’s final opinion of value
If you ordered a Comprehensive Appraisal, you’ll also receive a rebuild cost estimate, a rental value analysis, and a narrated video walkthrough of the completed report.
What Happens After You Receive the Report?
That depends on why you ordered the appraisal. If it’s for a mortgage lender, they’ll receive the report directly or through an appraisal management company. If you ordered it for your own use — pre-listing, estate planning, divorce, or tax appeal — the report belongs to you and you can use it however you need.
If you have questions about any part of your report, we’re available to walk you through it.
Questions Before You Schedule?
We’re happy to answer any questions before you book. Reach out by phone or submit a request online and we’ll get back to you quickly.
Mac-Valuations serves Cartersville, Acworth, Kennesaw, Marietta, Woodstock, Dallas, Rome, Calhoun, and communities across Northwest Georgia.